Summary
- Tips to successfully apply to universities abroad
- Common mistakes students make while applying to colleges abroad
- Documents You Need to Apply for Foreign Universities
- How CollegeMarker Study Abroad will help you apply for foreign universities
You are already overwhelmed with all the academic and peer pressure around you. Under all this pressure, remember not to lose sight of your dream of studying abroad.
You may think the application process is complex and draining, with a bit of planning you can ace all your study abroad applications and make your dream come true with ease.
A study abroad advisor will be in the best position to aid you through the entire process of applying to universities abroad.
Study abroad counselors are adept and experienced when it comes to documentation and procedures involved in the application to foreign universities. Appointing an accredited study abroad agent can ease the process for you.
Through this blog, we aim to assist you when it comes to applying to universities abroad. A quick read of this article will help you get the required mindset and material needed for applying to universities abroad.
11 Simple Ways of To Apply to Universities Abroad and Ace Your Admissions
1. Start well in Advance
It is always advisable to start applying to universities abroad well in advance. At least a year in advance would be appropriate. When you start your preparation early, you have a better chance of acing your admission process.
2. Choose a Program
Decide where you want to study abroad, what level and field of study you’re interested in, and whether you have the necessary academic credentials.
After considering your career options, choose a specialisation. Try to select a university that is highly ranked, has an excellent reputation for your desired course, or meets other relevant criteria to you. Choose a programme that is in line with your goals.
3. Organise Yourself
The first and foremost step in how to apply to a college in another country is to organise all your material. Organising yourself helps you to get sorted out.
Many colleges have different document requirements. However, there will be a list of documents like birth certificates and other such documents that are requisites for all colleges. Make a list of those documents and keep all those documents safely and ready.
Organise all the university applications one by one, while noting down the submission deadlines for all the universities.
Note these deadlines on a timetable that reminds you of this date. This way, you’re sure to not miss out on any submission.
Better still, you can use technology to your advantage. Make an excel sheet or spreadsheet of all the university applications with relevant information and documents to be submitted.
Being organised is the best way for understanding how to apply out of country universities. When you organise everything around you, you become tension-free and more at ease.
4. Internet Search
One of the steps of how to apply to out-of-country universities is to go through the websites of each of the universities and colleges and gather as much information as possible.
Most of the information on the internet will give you a rough idea of living abroad and the academic infrastructure in the college. When you gather all this information you tend to be more informed and you know what to expect.
5. Register for Entrance Exam
Register as soon as possible if your program requires an entrance exam. There are several different tests available, so before applying, you’ll need to determine which particular exams you require. These entrance tests often come in two categories:
- English Proficiency Tests: IELTS, TOEFL, PTE
- Aptitude Tests: SAT, GMAT, GRE
6. Know Your Application Form
Application forms to universities can be long and tedious to fill out. It is a good idea to know your application forms well before starting so that you can keep all the information ready beforehand.
Academic information and documents: All applications require information about your academic qualifications and copies of your pass certificates
Qualification tests and scores: Many universities require certain common tests like TOEFL, SAT, etc to be completed before admissions into the college. Remember to keep your scores and marksheets ready
Essay
Letters of recommendation
Extracurricular activities
Any other special documentation you may want to showcase.
Most application forms have some basic requirements
7. Get in Touch with the College/ University
Most of the college websites will have a contact page. You must get in touch with the college, asking to clear any doubts you may have about the procedures or any other query.
The colleges usually have an admin department that promptly responds to query emails. When in doubt, it is better to clear it out.
8. Gather Your Documents
Get your documents together. Documents that must be translated into the country’s official language should be completed and verified in advance. Make sure that no documents are missed and that everything is in order.
9. Visa Applications
It is important to get the required visa documentation processed beforehand. You don’t want to be in a position where you are accepted in university but can’t go because you messed up your visa application.
Many universities require visa details and other information. So. always start the visa application process simultaneously. Get all the necessary documents ready based on the country’s requirements.
10. Write a Perfect Essay
You must be aware that all universities and colleges require you to write an essay about yourself, your goals and why you want to be part of their college.
Make this the best essay you have written so far. Since you have started your applications well in advance, you have a lot of time to create several drafts before the final essay emerges.
Remember to include your goals, your motivation factors and why you want the experience of studying and living abroad. Make sure you can convince the college that you deserve to be part of their university.
When applying to study abroad, a letter of motivation or statement of purpose is a crucial component of the application. Make sure it is well-written and has been edited for mistakes.
Be honest in your explanations, use the right structure, and adhere to the university’s standards. Don’t overstate your experience or accomplishments.
After writing, allow any lecturers or mentors to proofread it. Their inputs will always be of great help.
11. Ace the Interview
Once you have applied to the university, and the paperwork is underway, you’re almost halfway there. Universities and colleges will then call for an interview with the student.
If it’s the first interview you will be attending in your life, then you might feel intimidated and overwhelmed. Do not worry, it’s a normal feeling.
It’s normal to feel scared and anxious before attending an interview, especially one with a panel of foreigners.
With advancements in technology, interviews are now conducted online through video calls and virtual meeting platforms. Remember to keep the settings free from disturbances while your interview is going on.
Dress well and impress the interviewer with your knowledge. Finally, it’s your enthusiasm, zeal and eagerness to learn and study in their university that will impress the interviewers.
You must take into account the costs for applying to colleges abroad, including those for the entrance exam, document translation, scheduling an English language test, tuition fees, and visa application fees.
As many students study abroad on a budget, don’t let this deter you, but do prepare a plan for your expected costs so that you can budget effectively
Now that we have seen how to apply to a university abroad you must also know what to avoid while applying to a university abroad.
Mistakes to Avoid While Applying to A University Abroad
The common mistakes students who aspire to study abroad make are not grave but can result in a compromise on the college you dreamt of.
Let’s try and decipher these mistakes and make certain that you do not make the same mistakes when you apply to a university in another country.
1. Not Doing Enough Research
Before applying to a university it is advisable to do thorough research on the university and the college.
Do not miss out on any information that may be relevant to your course. Start researching well in advance to avoid last-minute haste.
2. Not Making Sure Whether the University is Legitimate
Verify whether the college or university has the authority to provide degrees; this could be the difference between applying to Manchester University (a fictitious institution) or the University of Manchester.
3. Not Speaking to The Right People
While applying to colleges abroad you must speak to many people that could help you in the process.
4. Not Asking Queries
You should never stop asking questions that you have. A reputable college will gladly respond to any inquiries a potential student may have, while dishonest institutions frequently make an effort to withhold information.
The college administration, your mentors, your study abroad consultant, and other students could help you in making the right decisions when it comes to applying to universities abroad.
You May Also Like 17 Important Questions to Ask Your Study Abroad Consultants
5. Not Writing the Perfect Essay
The essay you have to submit to the university along with your application is your piece of artwork. This is one place where you can highlight your achievements that are not reflected in your academic performance.
Documents You Need to Apply for Foreign Universities
- Copies of degrees or diplomas from your previous studies
- Proof of language proficiency
- Academic Transcripts from your Bachelor’s studies
- Curriculum Vitae
- Statement of Purpose
- Reference letters
- Portfolio
How CollegeMarker Study Abroad will help you apply for foreign universities:
Personal advisor: By entering your information on our website, we will give you a free personal advisor who will walk you through the process.
Universities and courses: We help you find the best university and course for you and support you however you prefer, whether that’s via phone or online.
Help with applications: We make the process of applying to universities simpler by responding to any queries you may have with completing university prerequisites, such as English language tests.
Visa guidance: Your personal advisor will provide you with the most recent information on obtaining a visa for the study abroad destination of your choice as well as any necessary documents.
Advice on enrolling: We make sure you’re ready for your first day of study abroad.
Conclusion
Applying to universities abroad is a long and tedious process. Preparing yourself can ease the process for you.
Your study abroad consultant can aid you at every step of the application process. Remember, your dream to study abroad is just a step away.
Have you ever wanted to study abroad, experience different cultures, and receive the best possible education?
Look nowhere else! CollegeMarker Study Abroad Educational Consultancy is your ticket to a life-changing global educational adventure.
We understand that studying abroad involves more than academics; it also involves personal development, broadening perspectives, and making lifelong experiences.
We’ll walk you through every step of the process with the help of our team of passionate study abroad advisors, from choosing the ideal destination and program to ensuring a smooth application procedure.
Get in touch with us today to embark on the adventure of a lifetime!
FAQ’s
1. When should I submit my study abroad application?
A: Depending on the university, application deadlines will vary, but in general, applications for programs beginning in the autumn (September/October) will be accepted from the beginning of the year (January/February) until the middle of the year (June/July).
2. How much percentage is required for studying abroad?
A: Candidates must achieve good grades in order to pursue higher education abroad after completing their 12th grade requirements. The 12th grade exam must be cleared with scores between 60% and 85% for students who desire to pursue higher education overseas.
3. Why should I consider applying to a university abroad?
A: Applying to a university abroad can open up prospects for global professional advancement, exposure to a variety of cultures, and a top-notch education.
4. What prerequisites must a student meet in order to apply for foreign universities?
A: Requirements can differ by country and university, in addition academic transcripts, standardised test results (such as SAT, ACT, IELTS, or TOEFL), letters of recommendation, and a statement of intent are necessary.
5. How do I choose the best international university for my studies?
A: Do research on universities based on the programs you want to study, rankings, destination, costs, language of teaching, and scholarships that are offered.
6. When should I begin the application process for studying abroad?
A: To give yourself enough time for planning and the processing of visas, start the procedure at least 12 to 18 months before the commencement date.
7. Which country should I choose to study abroad?
A: The country where you want to pursue your degree must be on your shortlist. Consider your needs, income, prospects, and weather while applying because these are all important factors to take into account while applying.
8. Which college should I apply to?
A: Researching and selecting a university that best meets your preferences based on location, program, and other deciding considerations is the first step. Then begin drafting your statements of purpose (SOPs), obtaining your letters of recommendation (LORs), and creating your CV/Resume.
9. Do I have to take language tests like the TOEFL or IELTS to study abroad?
A: To make sure you can handle coursework if the language of instruction is not your native language, most colleges and universities require language competency test results.
10. Can I use an education consultancy to help me with the application process?
A: Yes, an educational consultancy can provide valuable advice and help with the application, the visa, and other related matters.
11. Are there any scholarships available for students studying abroad?
A: Many colleges and universities do provide financial help and scholarships for students studying abroad. For further information, consult the university’s website or financial aid office.
12. How can I get a student visa so that I can study abroad?
A: To learn about the requirements and application process for a visa, get in touch with the college/ university or embassy of the country where you’ll be studying.
13. What is a statement of intent? How significant is it for my application to study abroad?
A: A statement of purpose is a brief essay that outlines your academic and professional objectives. It is essential for demonstrating your motivation and passion for the program of choice.
14. Is there any application fee, and how much does it usually cost?
A: The majority of the time, there is an application cost for universities abroad. Check with each university for their unique fee as it differs between institutions.
15. What are the important documents required for the application process?
A: Academic transcripts, test results, letters of recommendation, a resume or CV, a statement of purpose, and a current passport are examples of commonly needed paperwork.
16. Is the GRE or GMAT exam necessary for all graduate programmes abroad?
A: Not every program demands the GRE or GMAT. Check with the course you are interested in to see if there are any particular prerequisites that some universities may have for certain subjects.
17. Can I submit applications to multiple universities at once?
A: You can apply to many universities, but make sure you effectively manage the deadlines and prerequisites on time and get admission to one university.
18. When submitting an application to study abroad, do students need to have health insurance?
A: A lot of universities demand that foreign students get health insurance during their time away from home. You can find out if the university provides insurance or if you must make your own arrangements.
19. How can I keep track of the progress of my application?
A: Online application portals are usually provided by universities so that students can monitor the progress of their applications. Students could also send important updates via email.
20. How can I get my academic transcripts evaluated?
A: You can have your foreign transcripts evaluated by credential evaluation firms, who can then give the university a comparable GPA or grading scale to consider.
